A Vote for Nader

[erikred]

Is a vote for Bush. Mostly. Let's put that post on embracing complexity to work for us. If you're the sort of person who:

-- actually votes, and you usually vote Democrat, then yes, your vote for Nader is a vote for Bush.

-- actually votes, and you usually vote Republican, then no, your vote for Nader is not a vote for Bush.

-- doesn't usually vote at all, but you've been motivated to vote for the only candidate to host SNL, your vote for Nader is not a vote for Bush, but you're certainly missing an opportunity to vote against Bush.

-- doesn't actually vote, but you like to complain loudly about the Bush Administration, your vote for Nader or your couch is not only a vote for Bush, it's also clear evidence that you need to be kicked in the head.

Let's put it this way: If you want to eject GWB from the White House, your only real choice is whichever shmuck the Democrats choose at the Primary Convention. Ralph's not going to win. The best he can hope for is to gain 5% of the vote, and it's pretty clear that the only people who are going to vote for him are the ones who already oppose the Bush presidency. Since we don't have Instant Run-off Elections (a rant for another day), a split in the voter base of any candidate is bound to lead to that candidate's loss. Ralph is a splitter.

If you want to do some real good for third-party candidates, support your local third-party candidates. If you get enough of them elected, you can change the political landscape.

Voting for a third-party candidate in the Presidential Election is not going to change the political landscape. Deal with it.

Comments

[ronebofh.livejournal.com]

I dunno. I think the problem lies squarely with Gore running a complacent and ineffective campaign, and McCain not willing to play poo-flinging with Karl Rove.

And i'm not really sure that the prosperity during those years can fairly be called "Clintonian" any more than the downturn could be blamed on Bush.

Re:

[erikred.livejournal.com]

Oh, please understand that by castigating the conscience votes for Nader I am in no way exonerating Gore for his inept handling of the race. The man lost it all on his lonesome. It's just that those extra 10,000 Nader votes would have allowed him to squeak to victory in Florida.

Re:

[ronebofh.livejournal.com]

And possibly a few other states, too. All the more reason Florida needs to become submerged by melting polar icecaps.

Re:

[erikred.livejournal.com]

Soon, baby.